Solar Panel Cost Guide in Stroud, PA (2023 Update)
- Stroud Solar Installation Cost: $12,138
- 25-Year Savings: $12,816
- Payback Period: 12.2 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Stroud
Find out how much it might cost to install solar panels in Stroud.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Stroud, the average cost of solar panels is 2.55 per watt. The average Stroud homeowner needs a 6.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $12,138 with the federal tax credit, or $17,357 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Stroud homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Stroud
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,140 |
| 3 years | $-9,144 |
| 5 years | $-7,147 |
| 7 years | $-5,151 |
| 9 years | $-3,155 |
| 11 years | $-1,158 |
| 13 years | $838 |
| 15 years | $2,834 |
| 17 years | $4,831 |
| 19 years | $6,827 |
| 21 years | $8,823 |
| 23 years | $10,820 |
| 25 years | $12,816 |
Top Solar Installers in Stroud
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it involves extra labor and knowledge. Because of that, almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. The payback period on an investment in solar panels will vary based on factors like your location and energy use, but going with a solar installer can shorten that period. Your provider will be able to help you get the most out of incentives available in your area.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Stroud, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in Stroud
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Stroud
For many Stroud homeowners, the decision to go solar depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Stroud, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power generation require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,550. The type of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your power bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Stroud average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Stroud homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. While solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Stroud homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you choose will affect your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. The size of the company sometimes plays the most significant role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.65 | $11,138 | $10,874 | 12.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $14,785 | 12.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $18,838 | 12.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $23,034 | 11.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $27,373 | 11.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $31,855 | 11.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $36,479 | 11.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $41,246 | 10.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, be sure to look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Warranty: If you're worried about the longevity of your solar panel system, making sure your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer different brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Stroud, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Stroud?
The average cost of solar panels in Stroud is about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Stroud?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't afford to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your home value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most savings from going solar.
Is going solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for a majority of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your energy bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.